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The temple was found inside a pyramid and will likely change the chronology of the ancient site.

"There was no news, until now, of the existence of a substructure within the pyramidal structure," said INAH Director Isabel Campos Goenaga at a press conference. "What we found could correspond to Teopanzolco's oldest temple."

The newly discovered temple is estimated to have been constructed around 1150-1200 AD, according to INAH. The rest of the structures are dated to the late post-classic period around 1200-1521 AD.

Ceramic remains and coal were also discovered in the temple, which scientists say could have been used for ritual activities.

Teopanzolco is located in the Mexican state of Morelos just 45 miles south of Mexico City. On September 19, the area was struck by a 7.1 magnitude earthquake that killed more than 200 people and devastated the region's infrastructure. Seventy-four deaths were reported in Morelos.

"In spite of what the earthquake meant, it is necessary to be thankful that ... this natural phenomenon [revealed] this important structure," Goenaga added.

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